Rye High School honors Andrew Chun and Hannah Kieran as US Presidential Scholars candidates

The Rye Board of Education meeting on March 25, 2025, began on a celebratory note as two exceptional Rye High School seniors were honored with the prestigious Recognition of Excellence Awards. This initiative, established in 2012, aims to acknowledge students who excel in academics, arts, and athletics.

During the meeting, it was announced that Andrew Chun and Kieran Goeden Kovis have been named candidates for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, a highly esteemed recognition for high school graduates. This program, initiated in 1964, honors students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and exceptional talent in various fields, including the arts and career technical education.

The selection process for the Presidential Scholars Program is rigorous, with candidates chosen based on their SAT or ACT scores and overall scholarship. Those selected will submit applications that include essays and school reports, with notifications for semifinalists expected in mid-April and final scholars announced in May.

The recognition of Chun and Goeden Kovis marks a significant achievement for Rye High School, as the last candidate from the school was in 2017. The Board expressed pride in the students' accomplishments, attributing their success to their hard work, as well as the support from their families and the school community.

As the meeting concluded, the Board took a moment to capture the celebration with photos, highlighting the importance of recognizing student achievements in fostering a supportive educational environment. This event not only honors individual students but also reflects the commitment of the Rye community to academic excellence and student development.